Boost for city as brewery is given go-ahead

Andrew Robinson

THE regeneration of Bradford city centre has been boosted by planning permission being granted for a new brewery and pub.

Bradford Council has approved the change of use of the former Shaw’s Moisture Metres factory in Rawson Road into the Bradford Brewery and Brewfactory pub.

Contractors should be appointed within weeks and work on the site could begin next month with the aim of opening the brewery in November.

Managing director Matthew Halliday said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with the decision and I’d like to thank the Bradford Council staff and councillors who were involved in ensuring this application was processed so quickly and effectively.

“We’re aware it’s a hugely ambitious scheme but the council were really supportive and positive about what we’re trying to achieve.

“We’re now looking forward to getting builders on site and turning this lovely old factory into a fully operational brewery and pub.”

The £400,000 development is at the heart of the City Centre Growth Zone and the major refurbishment of the historic factory is part funded by a Growth Zone grant.

The scheme, a stone’s-throw from the popular North Parade beer scene, will create 11 full-time jobs in the long term and many more involved in the design and construction of the brewery, according to Mr Halliday.

Designer David Craig, of David Craig Design Consultancy in Saltaire, said “It’s such an exciting project to be associated with as the development will bring a redundant building back to life, create new employment opportunities and stimulate further regeneration of the city. I am really looking forward to watching the project take shape – and I can’t wait to celebrate its completion with a proper pie and a pint.”

Several city centre businesses have benefited from the council’s Growth Zone fund.